1. Introduction to Forensic Science and the Law

2. What is forensic science?
Forensic science is the study and application of science to matters of law.
A forensic scientist’s main job is to study the different types of evidence found at a crime scene in order to reconstruct the events of the crime.

3. Criminalistics vs Criminology
the scientific examination of physical evidence for legal purposes.
is the psychological angle, studying the crime scene for motive, traits, and behavior that will help to interpret the evidence

4. Divisions of a crime lab
Physical science: examine drugs, soil, glass, paint, blood spatter patterns, and other physical evidence.
Firearms: examines tool marks, weapons, firearms, and bullets
Document analysis: examine handwriting, typewriting, computer applications, paper, and ink
Biology: hair, fibers, bodily fluids, biochemistry, and microbiology

5. Scientific Method (as it pertains to criminalistics)
Observe a problem or questioned evidence and collect objective data.
Consider a hypothesis or possible solution.
Examine, test, and then analyze the evidence.
Determine the significance of the evidence.
Formulate a theory based on evaluation of the significance of the evidence

6. Laws that Pertain to the U.S. Criminal Justice System
The U.S. Constitution
Statutory Law
Common Law or Case Law
Civil Law
Criminal Law
Equity Law
Administrative Law

7. The Bill of Rights Gives individuals the right:
To be presumed innocent until proven guilty Not to be searched unreasonably Not to be arrested without probable cause Against unreasonable seizure of personal property Against self-incrimination To fair questioning by police To protection from physical harm throughout the justice process To an attorney To trial by jury To know any charges against oneself
To cross-examine prosecution witnesses To speak and present witnesses Not to be tried again for the same crime Against cruel and unusual punishment To due process To a speedy trial Against excessive bail Against excessive fines To be treated the same as others, regardless of race, gender, religious preference, country of origin, and other personal attributes

8. Miranda Rights The following is a minimal Miranda warning:
You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to speak to an attorney, and to have an attorney present during any questioning. If you cannot afford a lawyer, one will be provided for you at the government’s expense.

9. Federal Rules of Evidence
In order for evidence to be admissible, it must be:
Probative—actually prove something
Material—address an issue that is relevant to the particular crime

10. Types of Crimes
Infraction
Misdemeanor
Felony

11. Facets of Guilt Try to prove:
Means—person had the ability to do the crime
Motive—person had a reason to do the crime (not necessary to prove in a court of law)
Opportunity—person can be placed at the crime